How African American Attire Has Been Influenced By African Fashions

By Robyn House


As a greater consciousness of their origins developed in the American Black community during the 1960s and 70s, styles and garments from Africa began to become more popular. African American attire began to hark back to the continent of origins much more clearly. Fabrics and styles from the western part of the continent became incorporated into the styles of the diaspora in America. African American Attire

The fabrics and materials used in clothing in West Africa became very popular, and were used particularly by women. A material which was called 'Kente' cloth became common, having been adopted from the clothing worn by the Ewe and Ahanti peoples of West Africa. As well as women's dresses, the fabric was also incorporated into designs for many other types of clothing.

Trousers and T-shirts made out of the fabric became more common. Formal garments also often received a touch of the fabric to add that personal note of cultural pride. Bow ties and cummerbunds for formal suits often being made from it, while academic robes have also been designed which incorporate the material.

There have been other, slightly less flamboyant, ethnic signatures which have been adopted by the Black community in the United States. Vibrant colours have remained popular though, a stylistic note which echoes the kind of style shown in Africa. Malian mud cloth has appeared too, as well as host of beads designed with Africa in mind.

Items such as accessories and jewellery have also been used by many Black people in the United States, Necklaces and bracelets which incorporate symbols from Africa are common nowadays. Many of these use the range of designs known as Adrinka symbols, which use symbols taken from the cultural traditions of West Africa.

African American attire continues to evolve and change, drawing on other areas for its inspiration. Music and historical experience continue to shape the styles worn by Black people in America. In turn, these styles and trends also continue to influence mainstream fashion across the world, with young people in particular keen to adopt the styles of Black people in the United States, who have exerted enormous influence on the way people dress across the world.




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